Free snacks for children at Peterlee Leisure Centre and library

Children can enjoy free snacks at libraries and leisure centres across County Durham this summer.

Bananas, satsumas, popcorn and raisins will be among the nutritious treats on offer to youngsters at Durham County Council venues throughout the six-week holidays from Monday 23 July. This includes selected council leisure centres, along with libraries and community libraries across the county.

Cllr Jane Brown, Cabinet member for social inclusion, said: “This scheme is part of a council wide programme to assist and encourage residents who may find themselves under increased financial pressures during the school holidays, as well as providing opportunities for families to socialise.”

The initiative runs alongside a programme of free and low cost holiday activities, which are listed in the council’s Summer Fun Guide.

Cllr Olwyn Gunn, Cabinet member for children and young people, said: “The summer holidays should be a time for fun and adventure and it’s so important that all children are able to enjoy it to the full. By offering free, energy boosting snacks we can help keep youngsters going when they are out and about.

“We would encourage everyone to find out more about the range of great activities on offer across the county over the next few months.”

The leisure centres taking part in the scheme are Woodhouse Close in Bishop Auckland, Freemans Quay in Durham, Spennymoor, Newton Aycliffe, Chester-le-Street, Teesdale, Consett, the Louisa Centre in Stanley and Peterlee. Snacks will be on offer every day during the venue’s opening hours.